Review
The Goodman 3.5 ton gas furnace and air conditioner system represents solid middle-market value in residential HVAC. At $736, it positions itself as an accessible upgrade path for homeowners moving beyond 80-90 AFUE furnaces and basic SEER equipment. This downflow configuration suits many standard installations, and the two-stage cooling with modulating heat stages suggest this is engineered for efficiency rather than bare-minimum operation. Goodman maintains strong contractor relationships and parts availability across most regions.
The efficiency metrics impress for the price point. The furnace delivers 97% AFUE with an 80,000 BTU heating capacity and modulating burner stages that adjust output between high and low, avoiding energy-wasting on-off cycling. Cooling performance reaches 18 SEER2 rating (marketed as 17 SEER) with a two-stage scroll compressor and 35,000 BTU capacity, running at 71 dB. The variable-speed ECM blower motor continuously adjusts airflow to actual load rather than fixed-speed operation, further improving efficiency. These features deliver tangible annual energy savings versus standard equipment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs versus 80-90% units, saving $200-400 annually in many climates
- 18 SEER2 cooling rating (listed as 17 SEER) qualifies for Energy Star certification and utility rebates
- Modulating burner stages optimize part-load efficiency instead of cycling on and off at full capacity
- Two-stage compressor allows efficient operation during mild weather, reducing noise and runtime
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts output to actual demand rather than running at fixed speed
- 3.5 ton capacity handles larger homes up to 2,000-2,200 square feet with proper ductwork
- Sweat-connection valve ports simplify some installation scenarios
- Reasonable $736 price for a complete condensing furnace and air conditioning package
Cons
- SKU lists 3 ton/3.5 ton tonnage inconsistently, creating potential confusion during specification
- 71 dB noise level is moderately loud during operation, louder than some variable-speed competitors
- Requires licensed technician installation due to gas safety requirements and local codes
- Limited documentation sample suggests you'll need multiple PDFs for proper installation and troubleshooting
- Downflow configuration limits flexibility for certain home layouts like crawlspace installations
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners replacing 15-20 year old furnace and AC systems who want reliable efficiency without high-end brand pricing. Contractors seeking competitively priced inventory for mid-range residential replacement jobs will find this attractive.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers needing ultra-quiet operation, those with space constraints limiting downflow orientation, or anyone unwilling to invest in professional installation.
Installation
This furnace requires a trained, licensed technician for safe gas line connection, vent installation, and electrical setup. The unit draws 115V single-phase 60 Hz power with breaker requirements between 21.9 and 35 amps. PVC/plastic venting is acceptable, simplifying exhaust routing. The A-coil style and sweat connections demand proper HVAC knowledge. Most installations take 4-6 hours including ductwork integration. Never attempt DIY installation due to gas safety hazards and code violations.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman provides a 10-year parts and labor warranty when you complete online registration at purchase. This exceeds industry minimum coverage and demonstrates manufacturer confidence in reliability. Registration is straightforward and typically takes five minutes. The extended period protects against compressor failure, heat exchanger issues, and major component defects. Read the warranty document carefully to understand exclusions and registration deadlines.
Specifications
| SKU | GCVM970804CN |
| Brand/Manufacturer | Goodman |
| Cooling BTU | 35,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R410A |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 71 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 144.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 18 |
| Condenser Stages | Two Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 7/8" |
| Max Breaker Size | 35 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 21.9 amps |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents. |
| Safety Information | This gas appliance requires a trained technician to install. Improperly connecting gas lines or improperly connecting a gas flue or venting may result in death. By purchasing this item, you are agreeing that you are using a trained technician to install this gas appliance. We will not be responsible for any injury or property damage arising from improper service or service procedures. Whoever installs or services this unit assumes responsibility for any personal injury or property damage which may result. Many jurisdictions require a license to install this equipment. PROPOSITION 65 WARNING This product and many products on our site may contain a chemical know to the state of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information about Proposition 65 please Click Here. |
| Configuration | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 7/8" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424271 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
Frequently Asked Questions
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